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Superconducting diode effects have recently attracted much attention for their potential applications in superconducting logic circuits. Several pathways have been proposed to give rise to non-reciprocal critical currents in various superconductors and Josephson junctions. In this work, we establish the presence of a large Josephson diode effect in a type-II Dirac semimetal 1T-PtTe2 facilitated by its helical spin-momentum locking and distinguish it from extrinsic geometric effects. The magnitude of the Josephson diode effect is shown to be directly correlated to the large second-harmonic component of the supercurrent. We denote such junctions, where the relative phase between the two harmonics can be tuned by a magnetic field, as 'tunable second order φ0-junctions'. The direct correspondence between the second harmonic supercurrents and the diode effect in 1T-PtTe2 junctions at relatively low magnetic fields makes it an ideal platform to study the Josephson diode effect and Cooper quartet transport in Josephson junctions. This work reports on the observation of a large Josephson diode effect in a type-II Dirac semimetal 1T-PtTe2. The magnitude of the Josephson diode effect is found to be related to an asymmetry of the critical supercurrent which is modeled as a phase shift between the first and second harmonic terms of the current-phase relationship and can be tuned by an external magnetic field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer cells program fibroblasts into cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in a two-step manner. First, cancer cells secrete exosomes to program quiescent fibroblasts into activated CAFs. Second, cancer cells maintain the CAF phenotype via activation of signal transduction pathways. We rationalized that inhibiting this two-step process can normalize CAFs into quiescent fibroblasts and augment the efficacy of immunotherapy. We show that cancer cell-targeted nanoliposomes that inhibit sequential steps of exosome biogenesis and release from lung cancer cells block the differentiation of lung fibroblasts into CAFs. In parallel, we demonstrate that CAF-targeted nanoliposomes that block two distinct nodes in fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR)-Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway can reverse activate CAFs into quiescent fibroblasts. Co-administration of both nanoliposomes significantly improves the infiltration of cytotoxic T cells and enhances the antitumor efficacy of αPD-L1 in immunocompetent lung cancer-bearing mice. Simultaneously blocking the tumoral exosome-mediated activation of fibroblasts and FGFR-Wnt/β-catenin signaling constitutes a promising approach to augment immunotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate changes in milk production, hematological, metabolites, mineral and hormonal parameters of primiparous (PP) and multiparous (MP) Maghrebi she-camels during nonbreeding season in Egypt. A total of 12 Maghrebi she-camels at lactation period, 6 PP (4–5 years of age) and 6 MP (6–13 years old) and 2–7 parities, were used in this study. Average milk yield was higher in MP than in PP at each lactation month. Milk fat, protein and total solid contents were higher in PP than in MP. The differences in hematological indices, biochemical parameters and mineral contents between PP and MP were not significant. The differences in leptin concentration between PP and MP were not significant. The differences in concentration of progesterone (P4) or estradiol (E2) between PP and MP were not significant, although both P4 and E2 concentrations tended to be higher in PP than in MP. Both P4 and E2 levels in PP or MP showed nearly similarity at nonbreeding months from May to August, then sharply increased during September and October. Results from this study suggested nonbreeding season of she-camels during May–August interval and longer breeding season from September to April of she-camel in Egypt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bench design geometry parameters are considered the important issue of rock extraction. It directly has influences on rock extraction on all surface mines and quarries operation. This paper discuss the bench height calculation according to three important considerations; the stability of slope faces, the safety of the work place and the efficiency of the work place, besides the calculation of optimum working bench level width. Also, determination of optimum blasting bench parameters such as bore hole diameter and depth, spacing - burden ratio, sub-drilling depth, stemming length, stemming material type and size, decks type and decking length, type of explosive, column and bottom charge, powder Factor for limestone quarry at Al Ain El Sukhna – west of Gulf of Suez according to field trial tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to determine the influence of breed and physiological status on productive and reproductive performance, blood metabolic profile, and concentration of some hormones in blood of Barki and Ossimi ewes. Investigations were carried out on 40 healthy ewes belonging to the Bedouin flocks in pastoral areas of Burj Al Arab region, animals aged 3-5 years and weighed 35.0- 40.0 kg. Animals were assigned in two equal groups (20 ewes/each) according to their breed (Barki and Ossimi ewes). Ewes were grazed on the natural pasture (Acacia saligna and Atriplex halimus plants) and supplemented with concentrate feed mixture. Results showed a significant (P<0.05) difference in live body weight between the two breeds (38.83 and 37.35 kg for Ossimi and Barki ewes, respectively). Milk yield, fat, lactose, ash and total solid were not significantly affected by type of breeds. The effect of breed was significant on RBCs, MCV and MCH, while, physiological status had highly significant effect on RBCs, Ht % and MCH. No significant differences were found between the two breeds in biochemical blood parameters except total lipids. Effect of physiological status was highly significant on albumin/globulin ratio and alkaline phosphatase. For the hormonal pattern, Ossimi ewes had higher level (p<0.05) of insulin concentration than Barki ewes especially during post-partum period. The breed type and physiological status had significant (P<0.05) effects on thyroid hormones, especially thyroxin, as Ossimi ewes showed higher concentration of T3 and T4 (1.76 and 40.14 ug/dl) than Barki ewes (1.67 and 38.20 ug/dl), respectively. Ossimi ewes showed higher (P<0.05) plasma leptin concentration than Barki ewes during different physiological status. Also, in the same trend, Ossimi ewes showed higher leptin concentration in milk than that found in Barki ewes during postpartum days and the differences were significant (P<0.05). Ossimi ewes showed improve of reproductive performance than Barki ewes, represented in estrus duration, estrus rate, onset of estrous, day of estrous, non-return rate, dominant follicle diameter, CL diameter, conception rate, fecundity, kidding rate, reproductive ability, kids born per ewes joined, ewes aborted/ewes conceived, twining frequency and kids weaned/kids kidded compared to Barki ewes. While, the type of breed insignificantly affected fertility. Analysis of variance showed significant variations (P<0.05) in pregnancy duration due to the type of breed. The differences in P4 concentration between breeds after mating were significant (P<0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Abstract Complex nanosystems fabricated by hybridization of different types of materials such as lipids, proteins, or polysaccharides are usually superior to simple ones in terms of features and applications. Proteins and polysaccharides hold great potential for development of nanocarriers for drug delivery purposes based on their unique biocompatibility, biodegradability, ease of functionalization, improved biodistribution and minimal toxicity profiles. Protein-polysaccharide nanohybrids have gained a lot of attention in the past few years particularly for drug delivery applications. In this review, different hybridization techniques utilized in the fabrication of such nanohybrids including electrostatic complexation, Maillard conjugation, chemical coupling and electrospinning were thoroughly reviewed. Moreover, various formulation factors affecting the characteristics of the formed nanohybrids were discussed. We also reviewed in depth the outcomes of such hybridization ranging from stability enhancement, to toxicity reduction, improved biocompatibility, and drug release modulation. We also gave an insight on their limitations and what hinders their clinical translation and market introduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: In a case‐controlled study, we assessed the expressed seminal NAD‐dependent protein deacetylase (SIRT1) expression in infertile oligoasthenoteratozoospermic (OAT) men associated with varicocoele. Our study involved 81 men, recruited from the University hospitals, after ethical approval and informed consent. They were allocated into fertile normozoospermic men (n = 23), infertile OAT men without varicocoele (n = 23) and infertile OAT men with varicocoele (n = 35). Inclusion criteria consisted of confirmation of abnormal semen parameters and normal female partners whereas exclusion criteria were leukocytospermia, tobacco smoking, hormonal therapy, immunological disorders, dyslipidemia, hypogonadism, cardiovascular disorders, morbid obesity, and hepatic or renal failures. All participants had an interview to assess clinical history, clinical examination, semen analysis, and estimation of seminal SIRT1 expression. Seminal SIRT1 expression was significantly lower in infertile OAT men than fertile men. Among infertile OAT men, seminal SIRT1 expression was significantly lower in those with varicocoele than in those without. Additionally, seminal SIRT1 expression was significantly lower in varicocoele grade III cases compared with other grades. Seminal SIRT1 expression was positively correlated with sperm concentration (r = 0.327, p = 0.001), total sperm motility (r = 0.532, p = 0.001), and sperm normal forms (r = 0.469, p = 0.001). Our results suggest that seminal SIRT1 expression has a role of male infertility being significantly decreased in infertile OAT men in general and in infertile OAT men associated with varicocoele in particular. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess the relation of seminal cyclooxygenase COX-1, COX-2 with oxidative stress in infertile oligoasthenoteratozoospermic ( OAT) men with varicocele (Vx). In all, 128 men were allocated into fertile men, fertile men with Vx, infertile OAT men without Vx and infertile OAT men with Vx. They were subjected to history taking, clinical examination and semen analysis. Also, seminal COX-1, COX-2, malondialdehyde ( MDA) and glutathione peroxidase ( GPx) were estimated. Mean levels of seminal COX-1, COX-2 were over-expressed, the mean level of seminal MDA was significantly increased, and the mean level of seminal GPx was significantly decreased in infertile OAT men with Vx compared with other groups. Seminal COX-1 and COX-2 were over-expressed in cases with Vx grade III compared with Vx grades I, II cases and in cases with bilateral Vx compared with unilateral Vx. There was significant negative correlation between seminal COX-1 and COX-2 with sperm concentration, sperm motility, sperm normal morphology, seminal GPx and significant positive correlation with seminal MDA. It is concluded that seminal COX-1 and COX-2 are over-expressed in infertile OAT men with Vx compared with fertile men with/without and infertile OAT men without Vx being associated with oxidative stress, Vx grade and Vx laterality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess seminal plasma oxytocin ( OT) and oxidative stress ( OS) levels in infertile men with varicocele (Vx). A total of 131 men were divided into fertile men ( n = 20), fertile men with Vx ( n = 17), infertile men without Vx ( n = 40) and infertile men with Vx ( n = 54). OT, malondialdehyde ( MDA) and glutathione peroxidase ( GPx) were estimated in seminal plasma. Mean levels of seminal OT, MDA were significantly decreased, and the mean level of GPx was significantly increased in fertile men with/without Vx compared with infertile men with/without Vx. Mean levels of OT, MDA were increased, and mean level of GPx was significantly decreased in Vx grade III cases compared with Vx grades I, II cases and in bilateral Vx cases compared with unilateral Vx. There was significant negative correlation between seminal OT with sperm count, sperm motility, seminal GPx and significant positive correlation with sperm abnormal forms, seminal MDA. It is concluded that seminal OT is significantly decreased in fertile men with/without Vx compared with infertile men with/without Vx. Seminal OT demonstrated significant negative correlation with sperm count, sperm motility, seminal GPx and significant positive correlation with sperm abnormal forms, seminal MDA. Seminal OT is associated with Vx grade and its bilaterality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess glutathione-S-transferase ( GST) enzyme- oxidative stress ( OS) relationship in the internal spermatic vein ( ISV) of infertile men associated with varicocele (Vx). Ninety five infertile oligoasthenoteratozoospemic ( OAT) men associated with Vx were subjected to history taking, clinical examination and semen analysis. During inguinal varicocelectomy, GST, malondialdehyde ( MDA) and glutathione peroxidase ( GPx) were estimated in the blood samples drawn from ISV and median cubital veins. The mean levels of GST, GPx were significantly decreased and the mean level of GPx was significantly increased in the ISV compared with the peripheral blood. The mean level of GST and GPx in the ISV was significantly decreased, and the mean level of MDA was significantly increased in Vx grade III compared with Vx grade II cases. There was nonsignificant difference in the mean level of GST in the ISV in unilateral Vx cases compared with bilateral Vx cases. There was significant positive correlation of GST with sperm count, sperm motility, GPx and significant negative correlation with sperm abnormal forms, MDA. It is concluded that ISV of infertile men associated with Vx has decreased levels of GST compared with peripheral venous circulation that is correlated with both OS and Vx grade. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was carried out to investigate the effects of osmosis, partially dehydrating and edible coating with chitosan on physical, chemical, microbiological and sensory evaluation of mango slices after processing and during storage at controlled room temperature (25±3°C). Mango slices (keitt cultivar) were osmotic dehydrated by immersing in sucrose solution 60% till moisture content reached about 55% (T1), and then partially air dehydrated to moisture contents 40% (T2), 30% (T3) and 20% (T4 and T5). Treatments T1, T2, T3 and T4 were dipped into coating forming chitosan solution, while T5 was a control. The results showed that weight loss, moisture content and osmotic dehydration ratio were 41.5%, 55.13% and 1.70:1, respectively, after osmosis. The results indicated that moisture content of osmotic dehydrated, then partially air dehydrated coated mango slices (T2, T3 and T4) were 41.11, 29.52 and 19.67%, respectively. Results indicated that osmotic dehydrated mango slices then partially air dehydrated and coated were maintained physical and chemical properties during storage at controlled room temperature compared with control treatment. Statistical analysis of sensory evaluation for coated partially air dehydrated mango slices (T2 and T3) showed an acceptable scores sensory evaluation for 6 month at 25±3°C, while treatment (T1)was an acceptable scores sensory evaluation for 2 months from storage. Edible coating with chitosan- methyl cellulose of osmotic dehydrated mango slices or osmotic dehydrated then partially air dehydrated was not accompanied by a remarkable increase in microbial load during storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess the cavernous antioxidant effect of green tea (GT), epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) with/without sildenafil citrate intake in aged diabetic rats. One hundred and four aged male white albino rat were divided into controls that received ordinary chow, streptozotocin (STZ)-induced aged diabetic rats, STZ-induced diabetic rats on infused green tea, induced diabetic rats on epigallocatechin-3-gallate and STZ-induced diabetic rats on sildenafil citrate added to EGCG. After 8 weeks, dissected cavernous tissues were assessed for gene expression of eNOS, cavernous malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), and serum testosterone (T). STZ-induced diabetic rats on GT demonstrated significant increase in cavernous eNOS, cGMP, GPx and significant decrease in cavernous MDA compared with diabetic rats. Diabetic rats on EGCG demonstrated significant increase in cavernous eNOS, cGMP, GPx and significant decrease in cavernous MDA compared with diabetic rats or diabetic rats on GT. Diabetic rats on EGCG added to sildenafil showed significant increase in cavernous eNOS, cGMP and significant decrease in cavernous MDA compared with other groups. Serum T demonstrated nonsignificant difference between the investigated groups. It is concluded that GT and EGCG have significant cavernous antioxidant effects that are increased if sildenafil is added. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess the effect of testosterone ( T) administration and chronic low-dose sildenafil/tadalafil on cavernous tissue oxidative stress ( OS) of aged diabetic rats. In all, 140 Sprague-Dawley aged rats were subdivided into the following: controls; streptozotocin ( STZ)-induced diabetic rats; diabetic rats injected with T every 4 weeks; diabetic rats on sildenafil orally daily; diabetic rats on T and daily sildenafil; diabetic rats on tadalafil orally every other day; diabetic rats on T and tadalafil; diabetic rats on alternate sildenafil/tadalafil; and diabetic rats on alternate sildenafil/tadalafil with T. After 12 weeks, the rats were euthanised where in dissected cavernous tissues malondialdehyde ( MAD), glutathione peroxidase ( GPx) and cGMP (cyclic guanosine monophosphate) were estimated. Compared with controls, aged diabetic rats demonstrated significant increase in cavernous tissue MDA and significant decrease in GPx and cGMP where diabetic rats injected with T had marked improvement of these parameters. Diabetic rats on sildenafil, tadalafil or alternate sildenafil/tadalafil demonstrated significant increased cavernous tissue GPx, cGMP and decreased cavernous MDA that was further improved when supplemented with T. It is concluded that frequent low-dose use of sildenafil and/or tadalafil supplemented with T has a marked impact on ameliorating cavernous OS in aged diabetic rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess the androgen receptor (AR) codon amino acids glutamine (CAG) repeats in 185 Egyptian men divided into fertile controls ( n = 30), oligoasthenoteratozoospermic (OAT) men ( n = 35), nonobstructive azoospermic (NOA) men ( n = 120; 18 successful testicular sperm extraction (TESE) and 102 unsuccessful TESE cases). They were subjected to history taking, genital examination, semen analysis, testicular biopsies for NOA cases, serum hormones and CAG repeats by PCR. The mean AR-CAG repeats showed significant difference between NOA group compared with fertile controls or OAT groups. Nonsignificant difference was elicited between OAT group and fertile controls. In NOA cases, CAG repeats demonstrated nonsignificant difference between unsuccessful and successful TESE. AR-CAG repeats elicited significant negative correlation with sperm count, significant positive correlation with sperm normal forms percentage and nonsignificant correlations with sperm motility per cent, tested serum hormones or testicular volume. It is concluded that AR-CAG repeats in Egyptian infertile men are in the range of other international or regional studies. AR-CAG repeats have demonstrated nonsignificant difference regarding TESE outcome in NOA cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary This study aimed at assessing the effect of regular use of intracorporeal injection (ICI), sildenafil citrate and vacuum constriction device (VCD) on cavernous smooth muscle and erectile activity. One hundred and sixty-five patients with organic erectile dysfunction were investigated for 3 months. The patient and his partner were classified prospectively after proper counselling: group I ( n = 56) received ICI twice per week; group II ( n = 55) received sildenafil 100 mg twice per week; and group III ( n = 54) used VCD twice per week. Duplex ultrasound was carried out before and after treatment, and then, the patients were followed up for a month to assess the resumption of unaided erection. The results showed that there was significant improvement in mean peak systolic velocity (PSV) and mean cavernosal artery diameter (CAD) at the end of the treatment in all groups, being higher in the ICI group than in the other two groups. Also, the percentage of patients who resumed unaided intercourse were higher in the ICI group compared with the other two groups (17.9%, 9.1% and 3.7% respectively). It is concluded that repeated regular use of ICI, sildenafil or VCD by patients with organic erectile dysfunction has a positive impact on their cavernous blood flow and erectile activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary This work aimed to assess seminal plasma reactive oxygen species (ROS)-antioxidants relationship with varicocele grade in infertile men with oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (OAT). The study included 89 infertile OAT men with varicocele divided into grade I ( n = 22) and grade II ( n = 43), grade III ( n = 24) and compared with 20 healthy fertile controls. In their seminal plasma, two ROS parameters (malondialdehyde [MDA], hydrogen peroxide [H2O2]) and four antioxidants (superoxide dismutase [SOD], catalase [Cat], glutathione peroxidase [GPx], vit.C) were estimated. There was significant increase in seminal MDA, H2O2 and significant decrease in seminal SOD, Cat, GPx, vit.C in varicocele-associated OAT cases when compared with the controls. Compared with grade I cases, varicocele cases with grades II, III demonstrated significant increase in estimated seminal MDA, H2O2 and significant decrease in seminal SOD, Cat, GPx, vit.C. It is concluded that seminal oxidative stress (OS) is related to increased varicocele grade in infertile OAT men associated with varicocele. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aimed to assess seminal plasma heme oxygenase (HO) enzyme activity in oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (OAT) males with varicocele. Ninety-three men were divided according to their sperm count and clinical examination into: healthy fertile controls ( n = 34), OAT without varicocele ( n = 37) and OAT associated with varicocele ( n = 22). They were subjected to semen analysis and estimation of seminal plasma HO enzyme activity in the form of bilirubin concentration. Seminal plasma HO enzyme activity decreased significantly in OAT cases compared with controls. Seminal plasma HO in OAT cases associated with varicocele decreased significantly compared with OAT cases without varicocele and healthy controls (mean ± SD; 109.2 ± 29.5, 283.6 ± 88.4, 669.5 ± 236.1 nMol bilirubin/mg ptn/min, P < 0.001). There was positive correlation between seminal plasma HO enzyme activity and sperm concentration, per cent of motile spermatozoa, number of motile spermatozoas ml−1 and significant negative correlation with sperm abnormal forms per cent. It is concluded that varicocele has a negative impact on seminal HO enzyme activity. Therefore, improved seminal picture after correcting varicocele repair might be related, in part, to improved HO action(s). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aimed to assess the cavernous anti-apoptotic role of using chronic low-dose sildenafil/tadalafil with and without testosterone (T) in aged diabetic rats. In all, 140 Sprague-Dawley aged rats were divided into the following groups: controls; induced diabetic rats; diabetic rats that received intramuscular depot T once every 4 weeks; diabetic rats on sildenafil 2 mg kg–1 orally daily; diabetic rats on T and daily sildenafil; diabetic rats on tadalafil 0.45 mg kg–1 orally every other day; diabetic rats on every-other-day tadalafil and T; diabetic rats on alternate sildenafil and tadalafil; and diabetic rats on alternate sildenafil, tadalafil and T. After 12 weeks, Bax (apoptotic factor), Bcl2 (B-cell lymphoma 2; anti-apoptotic factor), cGMP (cyclic guanosine monophosphate) were estimated in their cavernous tissues. Compared with the controls, aged diabetic rats showed significant increased cavernous tissue Bax and significant decreased Bcl2, in which diabetic rats injected with T showed the reverse compared with the diabetic rats. Diabetic rats on sildenafil or tadalafil showed significant increased cavernous Bcl2 and decreased Bax with upgraded Bcl2/Bax ratio that was improved being on T. Diabetic rats on alternate sildenafil/tadalafil with or without T showed further significant increased cavernous tissue Bcl2 with upgraded Bcl2/Bax ratio. It is concluded that frequent low-dose use of sildenafil and/or tadalafil combined with T would be predicted to have a pronounced anti-apoptotic cavernous tissue effect on the cavernous tissues of aged diabetic rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acenaphthenequinone reacted with diazofluorene, diphenyldiazomethane, phenybenzoyldiazomethane, phenacyl chloride, o-nitrobenzyl chloride, and diazohydroindenedione to give new oxadiazole, ketoepoxide and dioxadiazepine derivatives. They reacted with triphenylphosphine and triethylphosphite to give new organophosphorus compounds containing a six-membered or four-membered phosphorane ring. The structures were elucidated using IR, UV, NMR, and mass spectra, and elemental analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Penile amputation is an uncommon condition for which immediate surgical replantation is warranted. This work aimed to represent intervention and management for an amputated penis by replantation and reconstruction. A 23-year-old man presented with traumatic penile amputation for 2 h where the penile proximal part was 1 cm far from the pubis. Replantation included end-to-end anastomosis of the urethral mucosa over a catheter, approximation of the corpus cavernosum and tunica albuginea, anastomosis of the deep dorsal vein, dorsal nerve, both dorsal arteries and superficial dorsal vein. At day 5 post-operatively, the replanted penis had preserved capillary filling. The catheter was removed at day 11, where the patient urinated smoothly. The preliminary cosmetic appearance was satisfactory with frequent morning erection, reported night emission twice within the first month post-operatively. Sensation was preserved in the distal anastomosed stump. It is concluded that meticulous microsurgical technique decreases the possibility of skin loss and increases the chance of erectile function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Whether or not varicocele causes infertility is a contentiously debated issue. This study aimed to compare semen parameters and pregnancy rate in infertile males who underwent varicocelectomy with preserved or accidentally ligated testicular artery. Ninety-five infertile oligoasthenozoospermic patients with left-sided varicocele were subjected to subinguinal varicocelectomy with trial of preserving testicular artery. According to absence or presence of testicular artery in the histological excised pedicle the cases were divided into two groups; group 1 ( n = 60) with preserved testicular artery and group 2 ( n = 35) where the artery was accidentally ligated being not defined or injured. Semen analysis was carried out after 4, 8 and 12 months and post-operative pregnancy rate was assessed after 1 year. Serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinising hormone (LH) and total testosterone (T) were estimated pre- and post-operatively. Semen parameters (total sperm count, sperm concentration and sperm motility) showed significant increase post-operatively compared with pre-operative parameters but were comparable in both groups with no significant difference. Serum FSH, LH, T hormones and pregnancy rate (23.3% versus 22.9%) 1 year post-operatively showed no significant difference. It is concluded that accidental ligation of testicular artery has no deleterious effect on semen parameters during primary varicocele repair if the testicular arterial supply was not compromised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aimed to assess the efficacy of haeme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) cDNA-liposome complex transfer as a mediator of erectile signalling in aged rats. One hundred and fifty aged white albino rats were equally divided into five groups: controls, rats receiving lipofectamine, rats receiving intracorporeal HO-1 cDNA-lipsome complex, rats receiving HO-1 cDNA-liposome complex plus nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitor, and rats receiving HO-1 cDNA-liposome complex plus HO inhibitor. Six rats were killed from each group after 12, 24 and 48 h, and after1 and 2 weeks. In dissected cavernous tissues, the following were assessed: HO-1 gene expression, Western blot for HO-1, HO enzyme activity, cGMP and histopathology. The results showed that HO-1 cDNA-liposome complex transfer led to a significant increase in cavernous tissue HO-1 protein, HO-1 gene expression, HO enzyme activity and cGMP up to 1 week. NOS inhibition exhibited no effect on HO-1 gene enhancement of cavernous tissue HO enzyme activity or cGMP, whereas inhibition of HO significantly decreased these parameters. Histopathology of cavernous tissue demonstrated a significant dilatation of helicine arteries in HO-1 cDNA-liposome complex treated group after 48 h compared with the controls. It is concluded that HO-1 cDNA-liposome complex transfer augments cavernous tissue cGMP with subsequent sinusoidal relaxation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to assess seminal reactive oxygen species (ROS)-antioxidants relationship in fertile and infertile men with and without varicocele. One hundred and seventy six males were studied; fertile healthy volunteers ( n = 45), fertile men with varicocele ( n = 45), infertile oligoasthenozoospermia (OA, n = 44) without varicocele and infertile OA with varicocele ( n = 42). In their seminal plasma, two ROS parameters (malondialdehyde, hydrogen peroxide) and five antioxidants (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, vitaminE, vitaminC) were estimated. Compared with fertile healthy men, in all other studied groups, estimated seminal ROS were significantly higher and estimated antioxidants were significantly lower. Infertile men with varicocele showed the same relationship as infertile men without varicocele. Sperm concentration, total sperm motility as well as sperm normal forms were negatively correlated with seminal malondialdehyde and were positively correlated with vitaminC . It is concluded that varicocele has an oxidative stress (OS) in fertile normozoospermic bearing conditions. This may allow understanding that, within men with varicocele, there is a threshold value of OS over which male fertility may be impaired. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was carried out on 100 patients with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) to compare between results and complications of fine needle aspiaartion (FNA) vs. microdissection testicular sperm extraction (mTESE) sperm retrieval . They underwent history taking, clinical examination, semen analysis, serum follicle stimulating hormone estimation and scrotal Duplex. One testis was subjected to FNA screening whereas the other testis was subjected to mTESE and histopathology. Follow-up was by ultrasonography at 1, 3 and 6 months. The overall sperm retrieval rate was 54% by mTESE and 10% by FNA. Spermatozoa were retrieved by mTESE from all cases with hypospermatogenesis, severe hypospermatogenesis, 30% of Sertoli cell only (SCO), 16.7% of germ cell arrest and in 28.6% of tubular hyalinization. Sperms were retrieved by FNA in 33.3% of hypospermatogenesis, 9% in severe hypospermatogenesis, 5% in SCO, 16.7% in germ cell arrest, while no sperms were retrieved in the tubular hyalinization group. The total complication rate following mTESE was 10% in the early phase and none in the long-term follow-up compared to 24% of FNA side. It is concluded that mTESE is superior to FNA as regards sperm retrieval rate and lower incidence of complications in NOA patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aimed to determine the incidence of sperm disomy in infertile men with idiopathic severe oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (OAT). Fifty male subjects were included in this study: 30 infertile men with idiopathic severe OAT and 20 healthy fertile men as controls. Semen analysis, hormonal assay (follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinising hormone and testosterone), scrotal ultrasound examination and fluorescent in situ hybridisation of their semen samples were performed to determine the disomy levels of chromosomes X and Y. There was a significant higher frequency for XX disomy and XY disomy in spermatozoa from severe OAT patients than that in controls. There was nonsignificant difference in the percentage of YY disomy between OAT cases and controls. XX, YY and XY disomy showed nonsignificant correlation with the age. Sperm concentration and sperm motility demonstrated significant negative correlation with XX and XY disomy. Sperm abnormal forms had significant negative correlation with XX and XY disomy. Nonsignificant correlation was demonstrated between YY disomy and semen parameters. XX disomy showed significant positive correlation with XY disomy and nonsignificant correlation with YY disomy. YY disomy showed nonsignificant correlation with XY disomy. It is concluded that sperm disomy in severe OAT is increased, which should be taken into account when undergoing micromanipulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review aims to elucidate the possible effects of phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitors on sperm functions. PDEs hydrolyze cyclic nucleotides, and together with adenylyl and guanylyl cyclase, which catalyze the formation of cAMP and cGMP, regulate the levels of these second messengers in cells. cGMP-specific PDE5 is one of the PDEs that have been intensively studied because of its fundamental pharmacological relevance, as oral PDE5 inhibitors are used successfully in treating erectile dysfunction. In addition, they have shown diverse beneficial actions in different disease categories. Specific relevance of the cGMP system in reproductive functions has been recently proposed. Its use was shown to be devoid of effects on semen volume, concentration, sperm membrane integrity or sperm penetration assay. Most available studies demonstrated a significant increase in sperm motility and viability both in vivo and in vitro, which seems to be enhanced at low doses and reduced at high concentrations. Also, these molecules showed a role in capacitation and a debated one concerning acrosome reaction. However, due to the relative short period since the launching of oral PDE5 inhibitors, more investigations should be carried out in wider scales to assess their effect(s) on variant sperm function that could be beneficial as potential therapeutic approaches.International Journal of Impotence Research (2008) 20, 530–536; doi:10.1038/ijir.2008.29; published online 3 July 2008 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aimed to assess heme oxygenase (HO) enzyme activity relationship with different human semen parameters. One hundred and twenty men were divided according to their sperm count and clinical examination into: obstructive azoospermia ( n = 20), nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) ( n = 25), oligozoospermia ( n = 35) and normozoospermia ( n = 40). Semen analysis, western blot for HO-1 and HO-2, and estimation of seminal plasma HO enzyme activity chemically in the form of bilirubin concentration were carried out. Seminal plasma HO enzyme activity was very low in OA specimens, low in NOA, moderate in oligozoospermia while higher in normozoospermia (mean ± SD; 6.26 ± 2.2, 81.4 ± 35.5, 283.8 ± 90.1, 657.4 ± 227.6 pmol ml−1 min−1) with significant differences. Western blot analysis demonstrated HO-2 expression in all studied groups whereas HO-1 was highly expressed in fertile normozoospermic group compared with other groups. There was positive correlation between seminal plasma HO enzyme activity and sperm concentration, sperm motility percentage, motile spermatozoa ml−1 and sperm normal morphology per cent. It is concluded that HO enzyme activity in the human seminal plasma is related to spermatogenesis and sperm-motility processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Combining the centrally acting drug yohimbine with the peripheral conditioner sildenafil might be an approach to erectile dysfunction cases in which sildenafil alone failed. This work aimed to investigate the effect of yohimbine on sildenafil-induced facilitation of erectile process. Erectile responses to electrical stimulation of the cavernous nerve in anesthetized male rats were recorded. Intracavernosal pressure/systemic arterial pressure (ICP/SAP) was calculated, 1 and 5 min after intravenous administration of sildenafil, yohimbine or a combination of both. Changes in sexual arousal and copulatory performance indices were compared before and after these injections using behavioral mating experiments. It was shown that systemic administration of sildenafil produced a significant increase in ICP/SAP than control at doses 10 μmol kg−1. Yohimbine alone failed to potentiate erectile responses but yohimbine (1 μmol kg−1) significantly potentiated the effect of sildenafil 1–10 μmol kg−1 and 1 mmol kg−1, 1 and 5 min after injection. Potentiation of ICP/SAP induced by their combination was greater than the sum of the effects of the corresponding doses of either drug at the same time interval. A nonsignificant additional decrease in SAP than sildenafil-induced was observed if administered with yohimbine. Addition of sildenafil to yohimbine significantly enhanced the effect of the latter on intromission frequency, intercopulatory interval and the number of ejaculations per session. It is concluded that yohimbine may enhance and prolong the effect of sildenafil on erectile process without additional hypotension. Sildenafil may enhance the central effects of yohimbine on erection; it amplifies the effect of yohimbine on male copulatory performance but not on sexual motivation. The potential beneficial effect of the combination was found to be more pronounced on the central component than on the peripheral component of the erectile process.International Journal of Impotence Research (2008) 20, 409–417; doi:10.1038/sj.ijir.3901630; published online 17 April 2008 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aimed to assess the possible association between the presence of seminal mast cells and asthenozoospermia. One hundred and seventy-six male subjects were investigated: group (Gr)1 ( n = 46) normozoospermic fertile controls, Gr2 ( n = 62) idiopathic asthenozoospermia, Gr3 ( n = 32) asthenozoospermia with scrotal varicocele and Gr4 ( n = 36) asthenozoospermia with leucocytospermia. Four smear slides were prepared for each semen sample to be stained with toluidine blue–pyronin to detect mast cells. A significant increase was shown in mast cell-positive samples among varicocele-associated and idiopathic asthenozoospermic patients in comparison with fertile controls. Seminal mast cells were also detected at higher frequency among smokers and in age group over 40 years. It is concluded that mast cells and their products may play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of asthenozoospermia, possibly proposing a new goal for medical treatment of infertile males to pursue. In addition, this concept may in a way detain smoking as a cause of male infertility considering the clear abundance of mast cells in semen samples of smokers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work postulated that heme oxygenase (HO) is partly responsible for controlling phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor actions by modulating cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) cavernous tissue levels. Five hundred and four male Sprague–Dawley rats, divided into five groups, were investigated. Group 1 ( n = 72) included controls, group 2 ( n = 72) received sildenafil citrate (ViagraR) orally, group 3 ( n = 72) received vardenafil hydrochloride (LevitraR), group 4 ( n = 72) received tadalafil (CialisR). Group 5 ( n = 216), subdivided into three subgroups (A, B and C, 72 each), received the same dose of each drug with the HO inhibitor, Zn protoporphyrin. Eight rats from each group/subgroup were killed at 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 18, 24 and 36 h when cGMP levels in the cavernous tissues were estimated. Cavernous tissue cGMP levels increased significantly in sildenafil, vardenafil and tadalafil-treated rats compared to the controls with significant decreases after HO inhibition. It is concluded that the effects of these PDE-5 inhibitors in rat cavernous tissue are partly mediated through HO activity via the cGMP signalling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aimed to assess the relationship of seminal ascorbic acid levels with smoking in infertile males. One hundred and seventy men were divided into four groups: nonobstructive azoospermia [NOA: smokers ( n = 20), nonsmokers ( n = 20)]; oligoasthenozoospermia [smokers ( n = 30), nonsmokers ( n = 20)]; asthenozoospermia [smokers ( n = 20), nonsmokers ( n = 20)] and normozoospermic fertile men [smokers ( n = 20), nonsmokers ( n = 20)]. The patients underwent medical history, clinical examination, conventional semen analysis and estimation of ascorbic acid in the seminal plasma calorimetrically. There was a significant decrease in the mean seminal plasma ascorbic acid levels in smokers versus nonsmokers in all groups (mean ± SD; 6.03 ± 2.18 versus 6.62 ± 1.29, 7.81 ± 1.98 versus 9.44 ± 2.15, 8.09 ± 1.98 versus 9.95 ± 2.03, 11.32 ± 2.15 versus 12.98 ± 12.19 mg dl−1 respectively). Fertile subjects, smokers or not, demonstrated significant higher seminal ascorbic acid levels than any infertile group. Seminal plasma ascorbic acid in smokers and nonsmokers was correlated significantly with sperm concentration ( r = 0.59, 0.60, P < 0.001), sperm motility ( r = 0.65, 0.55, P < 0.001) and negatively with sperm abnormal forms per cent ( r = −0.53, −0.50, P < 0.001). Nonsignificant correlations were elicited with semen volume ( r = 0.2, 0.09) or liquefaction time ( r = 0.03, 0.06). It is concluded that seminal plasma ascorbic acid decreased significantly in smokers and infertile men versus nonsmokers and fertile men, and is significantly correlated with the main sperm parameters: count, motility and normal morphology. Also, cigarette smoking is associated with reduced semen main parameters that could worsen the male fertilizing potential, especially in borderline cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Explores the factors that played a part in the outcome of the 1953 coup that overthrew the regime of Iranian nationalist leader Mohammed Mossadeq. Involvement of the British and the U.S. intelligence agencies in the coup; Overview of the conflict over the Anglo-Iranian Oil Company; Analysis of U.S. motives in extending support for Iran.

Adenoviral conjunctivitis is a widespread worldwide problem in Iraq, as many adenoviral conjunctivitis patients are diagnosed each year. There are, however, few studies into pathogenic adenovirus genotypes causing conjunctivitis and a particular serotype causing this disease in mid effurates/Iraq. The goal of this research is the genotyping of adenovirus that causes conjunctivitis. Out of 150 eyeswab samples, VTM transport was then screened for the presence of HAdVs, from December 2018 to July 2019,from patients with viral conjunctivitis symptoms in Babylon, Kerbela, and Najef, Iraq respectively. Molecular detection by CYBR green qPCR amplification and nucleotide sequence outlined by viral DNA extractions. Of the 150 samples, 115 HAdVs samples (76.66%) were detected most frequency among females 56% (63/115%). Of the 30 HAdVs samples, 30 Hexon partial genes could be analyzed. The study of the sequence DNA and building phylogenetic tree, based on the hexon gene, indicate two different forms of HAdVs serotype 4 in Babylon(33.33%) and serotype 7 in kerbala, Najaf respectively(66.67%) associated with HAdVs with the significant difference 0.001. Gender distribution are presented that male 16(53.33%) and female was 14 (46.67%) that male is more excessive than female in mideffurate conjunctivitis patients / Iraq. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the roles of pheromones in sex and reproduction. Topics discussed include direct developmental effect on hormone levels and behavior, ability of human olfactory communication to perceive certain pheromones that may play a role in behavioral as well as reproductive biology, and chemical messengers transported outside the body.

The present study applies the improved stratigraphic modified Lorenz (ISML) technique to divide the Matulla Formation in Muzhil Oil Field in the Gulf of Suez into some hydraulic flow units (HFUs) and to check the flow efficiency contribution of each hydraulic flow unit (HFU) to the total bulk flow capacity of the reservoir in 3 wells (Muzhil-4, 7, and 8). The output of the ISML plot is applied in integration with the vertical plot of the porosity (∅), permeability (k), and effective pore radius (R35) against depth to measure the efficiency of each HFU contribution to the total flow capacity of the Matulla reservoir, and to delineate the main attributor to the flow capacity. It is indicated that the Matulla sandstone reservoirs can be subdivided into 7 HFUs to the NW of the field, while it is subdivided into four and five HFUs in the center and to the SE of the field; i.e., its heterogeneity increases to the NW at Muzhil-7 well. On the other side, the best reservoir quality is assigned to the southeast at Muzhil-4 well (av. ∅ = 20.8%, av. k = 596.6 md, and R35 = 12.1 μm). The efficiency of the obtained HFUs was estimated and described both mathematically and graphically. Also, the measured porosity and permeability values indicate relatively low reservoir properties to the NW of the field. The reservoir heterogeneity is also measured using the Dykstra-Parsons technique which indicates extremely high heterogeneity (0.89 ≤ V ≤ 0.98). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the analysis and measurements of ground vibrations induced bv bench blasting operations in limestone quarry at Assiut Cement Company (CEMEX), in Egypt. The object of this study is to predict peak particle velocity and to determine the safe distance for this site. For this purpose, blasts have been recorded using five seismographs to record ground vibrations events. Buildings and constructions close the quarry area have been given the first priority in these measurements, and the ground vibration components were measured for each event. After carrying out statistical analysis, the site-specific parameters were determined to predict the peak particle velocity. In this analysis, the prediction curves of maximum charge weight per delay versus distance for different damage criteria was drawn to be able to perform controlled blasting in order not to damage to the nearby structures, especially to the plant buildings and structures. The particle velocities and frequency values of all blast events were evaluated according to German DIN 4150 in order to determine the damage risks of the nearby structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Despite the fact that malleable penile implants are easier and faster to implant surgically, yet inflatable penile implants (IPPs) have usually shown to have higher patient satisfaction rate and lower rates of distal erosion. It was felt, but never shown that IPPs simulated better erections that filled out the penis better. Nevertheless, this had never been objectively proven in the literature to our knowledge. Objective: In this study, to achieve objective comparisons, we introduced the Penile Implant Intraoperative Measurements Planning (PIIMP) chart to find out whether IPPs were more likely to procure greater penile dimensions in comparison to malleable implants. Methods: 193 men undergoing penile prosthesis implantation were included in the study. 153 had malleable implants, while 40 had an IPP. Penile length and circumference were measured both in a stretched and unstretched state, both before and after a PGE1 intracorporal injection (ICI). Postoperative penile dimensions were re-taken after implantation and documented together with cylinders/rods dimensions. Results: In malleable implants, postoperative penile length ranged between pre and post ICI stretched length in 71.4% of times (n=110/153), fell below pre-ICI stretched length in 26.2% of cases (n=40/153) and reached beyond post-ICI stretched length in 1.96% of cases (n=3/153). In IPPs, postoperative penile length ranged between pre and post ICI stretched length in 60% of times (n= 24/40), fell below pre-ICI stretched length in 27.5% of cases (n=11/40) and reached beyond post-ICI stretched length in 12.5% of cases (n= 5/40). Using Fisher's exact test, it was found that postoperative penile length was 6.37 times more likely to rise above preoperative post-ICI stretched length in inflatable penile implants compared to malleable implant cases (12.5% vs 1.96%) (P value=0.0105) As for penile circumference, malleable implants showed a postoperative penile circumference ranging between pre and post-ICI relaxed girth in 69.9% of cases (n=10), reaching above post-ICI relaxed girth in 10.9% of cases (n=17), and falling below pre-ICI relaxed girth in 19.2% of cases (n=30). On the other hand, IPPs cases had a postoperative penile circumference ranging between pre and post ICI relaxed girth in 57.1% of cases (n=24), reaching above post-ICI relaxed girth in 27.2% of cases (n= 12), and falling below pre-ICI relaxed girth in only 9.1% (n= 4) of cases. (P <0.05) Thus IPPs were 2.5 times more likely to increase the girth of the penis (27.2% vs 10.9%) (P value <0.05) and 2.1 times less likely to cause a decrease in circumference in comparison to malleable implants (9.1% vs 19.2%) (P value <0.05) Conclusions: Our study demonstrated that IPPs were superior to malleable implants in attaining greater postoperative penile lengths and girths. We introduced the PIIMP chart as an objective standardized and easily reproducible instrument for intraoperative documentation of penile dimensions. Disclosure: No. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In many times, a good distribution and implementation of equipment and machines along the quarry faces is considered a challenge to the mining engineer or the quarry operator. Quarry equipment includes drilling machines, air compressors, loading equipment including loaders and/or excavators, in addition to the transportation fleet of high-tonnage trucks. These equipment cost large investments in the production processes and need high skill to be efficiently distributed and operated. In this investigation, study of the optimum distribution of the available drilling machines of different specifications and capacities along the faces of the lime stone quarry of Assiut Cement Company has been carried out. A mathematical model has been used to find several alternatives and to choose the best alternative. Calculation of the minimum number of drilling machines that satisfy the annual production plan is an important step to decrease production costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary The aim of this study was to assess vascular disturbances in the testis of infertile males associated with varicocele. In total, 124 consecutive male subjects were divided into the following groups: healthy fertile controls ( n = 10), Gp1 ( n = 28); infertile males with subclinical varicocele, Gp2 ( n = 26); infertile males with grade I left varicocele, Gp3 ( n = 28); infertile males with grade II left varicocele and Gp4 ( n = 32); infertile males with grade III left varicocele. They were subjected to colour duplex for pampiniform plexus and scrotal scintigraphy. There was significant decrease in arterial blood velocity, testicular arterial diameters and testicular perfusion especially in high grade varicocele compared with healthy controls. The mean vein diameter demonstrated significant negative correlation with arterial diameter, arterial blood velocity, perfusion index, testicular size and significant positive correlation with perfusion index. The mean testicular size demonstrated significant positive correlation with arterial blood velocity, perfusion index and nonsignificant correlation with arterial diameter. It is concluded that there are significant decreases in testicular volume, testicular perfusion, blood velocity and testicular artery diameter in infertile males with varicocele. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to illustrate the histological picture of the developing rat prostate and to localise the oestrogen receptors (ERs) distribution. Fifty male albino rats were divided into five equal subgroups: subgroup 1, rats aged 2 days (before morphogenesis of prostate from urogenital sinus); subgroup 2, rats aged 1 week (after early morphogenesis); subgroup 3, rats aged 2 weeks (early pubertal stage); subgroup 4, rats aged 4 weeks (late pubertal stage) and subgroup 5 rats aged 6 weeks (maturation stage). After the rats had been killed, the prostates were dissected and specimens were obtained from the anterior lobe. Paraffin sections of these specimens were subjected to haematoxylin and eosin stain, immunohistochemistry and quantitative immunohistohemistry for ERs distribution and the area of strong positive cytoplasmic immunoreactivity. The results demonstrated that ERs protein decreased gradually with increased age and that it decreased markedly with the onset of puberty. It is concluded that the prostate despite being an androgen dependent gland, depends greatly on oestrogen in its development in the prepubertal period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stem cell-based therapy targeted at the penile tissue has been lately considered in preclinical studies. This work aimed to assess the effect of intracavernous administration of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in aged rats ( n = 100). They were subjected to single intracavernous injection (ICI) of 1.0 million MSCs, followed up for 3, 4 weeks, 3 and 4 months (each group 25 rats) and compared with both adult and aged controls ( n = 50). In dissected cavernous tissues, cGMP and histopathology were assessed in addition to intracavernous pressure (ICP) measurement in some anaesthetised rats. The results showed that cavernous tissue cGMP was significantly increased in MSCs transplanted rats in all investigated groups compared with the controls. The mean cavernous cGMP levels after 3 and 4 months of MSCs transplantation were significantly increased compared with those after 3 or 4 weeks. Cavernous tissue ICP measurement showed significant increase in MSCs transplanted groups compared with the controls, more in the long-term follow up than in the shorter one. Histopathological examination detected markedly dilated sinusoidal vascular spaces in the long-term follow-up study. It is concluded that stem cell-based therapy is feasible for age-associated erectile dysfunction and could improve erectile signaling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accelerated apoptosis is a significant factor in the pathophysiology of male infertility disorders associated with abnormal spermatogenesis. This study aimed to investigate apoptosis in varicocele-bearing testes. Sixty four men with varicocele (18 fertile and 46 infertile) were studied compared with eight men with obstructive azoospermic as controls. Apoptosis was assessed in testicular biopsy specimens using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase deoxyuridine triphosphate nick end labeling (TUNEL) method as well as electron microscopy. The results demonstrated that the occurrence of apoptotic changes comprised all types of germ cells but not affecting Sertoli cells. Mean tubular apoptotic indices of fertile or infertile men with varicocele were significantly higher than controls (mean ± SD 4.55 ± 1.03%, 6.29 ± 1.82% versus 2.71 ± 0.45%, P < 0.05). Mean Leydig cells apoptotic indices of infertile men with varicocele were significantly higher than those of fertile men without varicocele as well as controls (1.18 ± 0.38%, 0.68 ± 0.15%, 0.31 ± 0.21%, P < 0.05). Apoptotic indices were nonsignificantly correlated with Johnsen score, testicular volume or varicocele grade. It is concluded that testicular apoptosis is increased in varicocele-associated men either fertile or infertile who may be implicated in associated spermatogenic dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyorchidism is a rare anomaly, defined as the presence of more than two testicles with about 100 cases reported in the literature. The majority of cases were triorchidism with occasional bilateral duplication. We report the case of a 32-year-old man with polyorchidism, presenting with primary infertility with oligoasthenoteratozoospermia semen profile. Scrotal examination revealed two discrete ovoid nontender, firm, mobile lumps with testicular sensation in the right side of the scrotum. Ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging confirmed the presence of double testes with double separate epididymides sharing a common vas deferens in the right side of the scrotum. It demonstrated similar echo texture and vascular flow in both right-sided testicles although smaller in size than the left testis. The case was managed conservatively without surgical intervention with follow-up. Tracing of similar conditions in the literature was discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aimed at identifying mast cells in testicular biopsies from 10 normal fertile controls, 20 patients with obstructive azoospermia and 70 patients with nonobstructive azoospermia. The biopsies were stained with haematoxylin and eosin stain for tubular-modified Johnson score and with toluidine blue stain for mast cells. Two populations of mast cells, peritubular and interstitial, were demonstrated in all sections with varied counts. Testicular sections with Sertoli cell only and spermatogenic arrest patterns demonstrated a significant increase in both peritubular and interstitial mast cells compared with other groups, whereas obstructive azoospermia demonstrated a nonsignificant increase compared with the controls. Mast cell count was significantly correlated negatively with Johnson score for both peritubular (P = 0.001) and interstitial (P = 0.001) populations. Whether these results could be a cause or an effect, a special role might be assigned to mast cells in the pathogenesis of disturbed spermatogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leptin is an adipocyte-secreted protein that participates in the regulation of energy homeostasis. Eighty men were investigated; fertile normozoospermia as a control (n = 30) and infertile oligozoospermia (n = 50). The patients underwent estimation of body weight (kg), height (cm), calculation of body mass index (BMI), semen analysis, serum leptin and testosterone hormones. Mean body weight was significantly higher in infertile oligozoospermia compared with controls. Mean height, BMI and serum testosterone levels showed nonsignificant differences between the two groups. Infertile oligozoospermia had significantly higher mean serum leptin level than controls (mean ± SD; 6.88 ± 8.65, 16.3 ± 13.98 ng ml-1, P < 0.01). Serum leptin demonstrated significant positive correlation with age, body weight, BMI and significant inverse correlation with serum testosterone. It had nonsignificant correlation with the height and sperm concentration. These results are suggestive of a link between the adipocyte derived hormone, leptin and male reproduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work is aimed at evaluating the effect of repeated intracavernosal injection (ICI) self-injection on the peak systolic velocity (PSV) and the diameter of cavernosal arteries. Sixty erectile dysfunction (ED) patients who were positive responders for ICI therapy were studied. Pharmacopenile duplex ultrasonography (PPDU) was carried out before starting ICI and after 10 doses of home therapy in an open-label uncontrolled study. There was significant increase in the cavernosal artery diameter and their PSV before and after injection. Cavernosal arteries diameter before injection in both right and left sides was 0.64±0.13 and 0.63±0.12 mm at the start and became 0.81±0.22 and 0.79±0.22 mm respectively at the end with significant differences (P<0.001). Cavernosal arteries diameter after injection in both right and left sides was 1.10±0.18 and 1.09±0.19 mm at the start and became 1.34±0.39 and 1.27±0.33 mm respectively at the end with significant differences (P<0.001). PSV at the start was 33.77±13.26 and 32.33±8.09 cm/s on both right and left sides and became 44.4±1.19 and 46.1±5.86 cm/s respectively at the end with significant differences (P<0.001). It is concluded that repeated ICI improves arterial erectile response with associated increase in PSV and cavernosal artery diameters.International Journal of Impotence Research (2007) 19, 505–508; doi:10.1038/sj.ijir.3901563; published online 21 June 2007 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The studied area (Shoubra El-Khima, Bahteem and Mostorod) lies in the industrial area north of Greater Cairo. The area suffers from several environmental problems such as sewage and disposal of pollutants from the surrounding factories into the surface water pathways in the area. Water samples were collected seasonally from different waterways found in the area, domestic and or industrial liquid wastes from 12 discharge tubes of different factories (as a point source of pollution). Chemical characteristics of different water samples and its heavy metals content were determined using ion coupled plasma technique (ICP). Results indicate that industrial and domestic wastewater samples contain several toxic levels of tested heavy metals (Cd, Co, Pb and Ni) which have a serious impact on surface waterways in the area. Shebin El-Qanater collector drain samples exhibited the highest levels of Cd, Co, Pb and Ni compared to other tested water bodies. Mostorod collector drain samples showed the highest levels of Zn and Cu. Industrial effluent samples collected from Cairo Company for Fabric industry had the highest amounts of total Zn Cu, Cd, Co and Pb, while Delta steel company discharges the highest amounts of total Fe and Mn. Al-Ahleya Plastic Company discharges the highest amounts of total-Ni. Generally, it is necessary to impose the environmental laws and its regulation regarding the industrial wastewater treatments and disposals to minimize the risk of the adverse effects of these pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Despite the fact that malleable penile implants are easier and faster to implant surgically, yet inflatable penile implants (IPPs) have usually shown to have higher patient satisfaction rate and lower rates of distal erosion. It was felt, but never shown that IPPs simulated better erections that filled out the penis better. Nevertheless, this had never been objectively proven in the literature to our knowledge. Objective: In this study, to achieve objective comparisons, we introduced the Penile Implant Intraoperative Measurements Planning (PIIMP) chart to find out whether IPPs were more likely to procure greater penile dimensions in comparison to malleable implants. Methods: 193 men undergoing penile prosthesis implantation were included in the study. 153 had malleable implants, while 40 had an IPP. Penile length and circumference were measured both in a stretched and unstretched state, both before and after a PGE1 intracorporal injection (ICI). Postoperative penile dimensions were re-taken after implantation and documented together with cylinders/rods dimensions. Results: In malleable implants, postoperative penile length ranged between pre and post ICI stretched length in 71.4% of times (n=110/153), fell below pre-ICI stretched length in 26.2% of cases (n=40/153) and reached beyond post-ICI stretched length in 1.96% of cases (n=3/153). In IPPs, postoperative penile length ranged between pre and post ICI stretched length in 60% of times (n= 24/40), fell below pre-ICI stretched length in 27.5% of cases (n=11/40) and reached beyond post-ICI stretched length in 12.5% of cases (n= 5/40). Using Fisher's exact test, it was found that postoperative penile length was 6.37 times more likely to rise above preoperative post-ICI stretched length in inflatable penile implants compared to malleable implant cases (12.5% vs 1.96%) (P value=0.0105) As for penile circumference, malleable implants showed a postoperative penile circumference ranging between pre and post-ICI relaxed girth in 69.9% of cases (n=10), reaching above post-ICI relaxed girth in 10.9% of cases (n=17), and falling below pre-ICI relaxed girth in 19.2% of cases (n=30). On the other hand, IPPs cases had a postoperative penile circumference ranging between pre and post ICI relaxed girth in 57.1% of cases (n=24), reaching above post-ICI relaxed girth in 27.2% of cases (n= 12), and falling below pre-ICI relaxed girth in only 9.1% (n= 4) of cases. (P <0.05) Thus IPPs were 2.5 times more likely to increase the girth of the penis (27.2% vs 10.9%) (P value <0.05) and 2.1 times less likely to cause a decrease in circumference in comparison to malleable implants (9.1% vs 19.2%) (P value <0.05) Conclusions: Our study demonstrated that IPPs were superior to malleable implants in attaining greater postoperative penile lengths and girths. We introduced the PIIMP chart as an objective standardized and easily reproducible instrument for intraoperative documentation of penile dimensions. Disclosure: No. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Previous studies have documented improvement in erectile function after bilateral cavernous nerve injury (BCNI) in rats with the use of pioglitazone. Our group determined this improvement to be mediated by the insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) pathway. Aim To eliminate the systemic effects of pioglitazone and evaluate the local delivery of IGF-1 by polymeric microspheres after BCNI in the rat. Methods Male Sprague–Dawley rats aged 10–12 weeks were assigned at random to 3 groups: sham operation with phosphate buffered saline (PBS)-loaded microspheres (sham group), crush injury with PBS-loaded microspheres (crush group), and crush injury with IGF-1–loaded microspheres (IGF-1 group). Poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid microspheres were injected underneath the major pelvic ganglion (MPG). IGF-1 was released at approximately 30 ng/mL/day per MPG per rat. Outcomes Functional results were demonstrated by maximal intracavernosal pressure (ICP) normalized to mean arterial pressure (MAP). Protein-level analysis data of IGF-1 receptor (IGF-1R), extracellular signal–regulated kinase (ERK)-1/2, and neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) were obtained using Western blot analysis and immunohistochemistry for both the cavernosal tissue and the MPG and cavernous nerve (CN). Results At 2 weeks after nerve injury, animals treated with IGF-1 demonstrated improved erectile functional recovery (ICP/MAP) at all voltages compared with BCNI (2.5V, P =.001; 5V, P <.001; 7.5V, P <.001). Western blot results revealed that up-regulation of the IGF-1R and ERK-1/2 in both the nervous and erectile tissue was associated with improved erectile function recovery. There were no significant between-group differences in nNOS protein levels in cavernosal tissue, but there was an up-regulation of nNOS in the MPG and CN. Immunohistochemistry confirmed these trends. Clinical Translation Local up-regulation of the IGF-1R in the neurovascular bed at the time of nerve injury may help men preserve erectile function after pelvic surgery, such as radical prostatectomy, eliminating the need for systemic therapy. Strengths & Limitations This study demonstrates that local drug delivery to the MPG and CN can affect the CN tissue downstream, but did not investigate the potential effects of up-regulation of the growth factor receptors on prostate cancer tissue. Conclusion Stimulating the IGF-1R at the level of the CN has the potential to mitigate erectile dysfunction in men after radical prostatectomy, but further research is needed to evaluate the safety of this growth factor in the setting of prostate cancer. Haney NM, Talwar S, Akula PK, et al. Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1–Loaded Polymeric Poly(Lactic-Co-Glycolic) Acid Microspheres Improved Erectile Function in a Rat Model of Bilateral Cavernous Nerve Injury. J Sex Med 2019;16:383–393. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Puberty is the transitional period between childhood and adulthood, a process encompassing morphological, physiological and behavioural development to attain full reproductive capability. This study aimed to assess serum relaxin‐3 hormone relationship with male delayed puberty. Sixty males were investigated as two equal groups: males with delayed puberty and healthy matched males as controls. They were subjected to history taking, clinical examination and estimation of serum FSH, LH, testosterone, relaxin‐3 hormonal levels. The results showed that the secondary sexual characters in the patients group were at Tanner stages 1–2 and in the healthy controls at Tanner stages 3–5. The mean BMI in the patients group was significantly increased, whereas the mean levels of the span, testicular volume, serum LH, FSH, testosterone as well as relaxin‐3 hormonal levels were significantly decreased compared with the healthy controls. Serum relaxin‐3 levels showed significant positive correlation with the age, testis volume, span, Tanner stages, serum testosterone, FSH, LH hormones. In addition, serum relaxin‐3 levels showed significant negative correlation with BMI. It is concluded that serum level of relaxin‐3 hormone is an important mediator in the pathophysiological process of normal puberty being significantly decreased in males with delayed puberty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]